Sheikh Zayed Festival unveils spectacular New Year's Eve lineup

The Supreme Organising Committee of the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba has revealed an exciting program for its New Year's Eve 2025 festivities, promising an unforgettable night of entertainment, light shows, and cultural performances. These performances aim to set six new Guinness World Records.

The celebrations will kick off early, with an array of spectacular fireworks and drone displays lighting up the evening sky. Starting at 6:00 p.m., the festival will feature continuous fireworks shows every hour, building up to an awe-inspiring midnight spectacle. At the stroke of midnight, a grand fireworks display will last an unprecedented 53 minutes, setting new records for duration, continuity, and creative formations.

Visitors are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance, as the venue will close once capacity is reached.zayedfestival.ae

But the real showstopper comes before midnight: 6,000 drones will take to the skies at 11:40 p.m. for a stunning 20-minute performance. This breathtaking drone display will feature dynamic visuals, including a world-record-breaking 3,000 drones forming the largest image ever created in the sky, along with a celebratory "HAPPY NEW YEAR" message.

Adding to the grandeur, the Emirates Fountain stage will transform into a mesmerizing light and laser show, with 80 cutting-edge laser systems and 4,000 nozzles creating a vibrant display that will bathe Al Wathba’s skyline in harmonious colors and music. To top it off, over 100,000 balloons will be released, filling the air with excitement.

The festival will also celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the UAE, with traditional performances like Al Ayala, Al Razfa, and Al Naddba. These vibrant live shows, featuring 600 performers, will take place throughout the day in various festival venues, including the Heritage Village Square and the Department of Culture and Tourism Pavilion.

International pavilions will also join in the festivities, hosting carnivals and folkloric performances to mark the occasion. For families, there will be plenty of entertainment options, including performances at the Kids' Theater and a massive amusement park with 130 games, ensuring fun for all ages.

To enhance the festival’s atmosphere, 3,000 square meters of digital screens will broadcast the celebrations, while large outdoor screens will ensure that those unable to enter the venue don’t miss a moment of the action.

With gates opening at 2:00 p.m., visitors are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance, as the venue will close once capacity is reached. For those who can't make it inside, the entire event will be broadcast live, so everyone can join in the excitement and ring in the New Year 2025 in style.